Important note: you don't actually need to cut the washer. That step has been removed from more recent assembly guides, it was erroneously left in from an earlier version of the werkstatt.
Note to other builders: Correctly placing the CV expander pins into the header is the hardest part of this build. The pins are very long and delicate, and they have to completely seat deeply in the socket. All the builds have underestimated how easy they are to bend. I had no problems with my build, but this issue needs to be brought up.
Congrats. This was the best Werkstatt demo out out of the bunch released today. Really shows off a wide range of sounds that can be created on it. Lots of patch ideas and starting points.
Just assembled one of these last night while my wife hosted her online book club (crap, am I approaching middle age or something?). After the quick assembly process, I started jamming it through eurorack gear to see how it played. Buying a WERKSTATT-01 got me exactly what I was looking for: instant gratification. Fun! Lots of it. One last thing: bought mine from my local shop. Support your local shop!
There’s these amazing moments when designing beats, hooks, melodies etc. Where you go from working on the individual parts to the whole groove. Suddenly the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. It all locks together into a killer groove. You get a big smile and your head starts bobbing. That last robot beat he assembled was just such a moment. Damn!
@07:00 … and there, that exact moment I literally stopped the video and ordered mine (so fast and convinced because they’re out of production….) Thanks for the best Werkstatt video 👍
I don't mind a gushy, usually me singing someone's praises as there's so many great people around. Thank you, really appreciate that. Always trying to go a bit further and deeper into things with synthesis ideas and musical applications.
@@matthewwilson3673 Just a word of advice. The Werkstatt's patch bay is so simple that you'll probably have it completely figured out in little time. That said , I recommend pairing it with the Crave if you feel like expanding. The patch bay is way less intimidating than many other synths, the Crave's circuitry is designed after that of the Mother32 so they sound great together. The problem with using just the Werkstatt is that there IS no sequencer. That's where the Crave comes in. The sequencer on that machine is not only simple, it's also very versatile and provides great control via CV and midi.
The cheapest way to get that "Moog" sound just got cheaper. I got one a little over a year ago and did a few mods to it. Output volume knob, VCO on/off switch to use the filter with external audio, gate input (original expander didn't have gate input) and a pt2399 delay kit. Very dope lil synth.
@@xani666 In all the major chains and online retailers in the US, a Crave is $250. The Werkstatt is $200 in the same stores. Just do a google search. I think Moog in general may be higher outside the US though.
The Behringer Crave is basically their version of a Mother 32 for around the same price as the Werkstatt with more functionality, if you miss the Mother 32. Aside from the design, the sound differences are minor. 👍🏾
no MIDI it's analogue CV and gate. So you'd need to be able to out sequences with a CV and gate signal. There's a few small and simple devices for taking MIDI and converting to CV gate.
Did anybody know if there is a suitable building/soldering instruction for the expander or will it be again sold separately ? I have the 2014 version without expander.
Arturia Keystep 37 or a Korg SQ-1. I have used both. I think those are by far the best. And obviously the difference between the two is what exactly you want to do and if you want a key-bed.
I loved the review. I was hoping you would talk more about the cv expander, or is there really nothing more to say? Is this Werkstat-01 package a re-issue, or is this just considered a continuation of something that never really left production?
There are actually some small differences between this one and the Moogfest model. An obvious one being the tagline at the top of the front panel now just saying "analog synthesizer" without the reference to moogfest. But also the original didn't have a gate in on the patchbay. As for what there is to say about the cv expander: it mostly just gives you jack inputs and outputs for the same things the patchbay below does, so you can interface with other gear. But if there's something specific you would like to know about it, feel free to ask.
I just found out these were for sale at an attractive price near me...I may pick one up, since I don't actually have a Moog ladder filter in my inventory yet.
Thanks for the lesson in getting a kick drum outta this - sounds grand! That was one of the things I was hoping to use this for. Just bought one. Great demos! Did you have to calibrate it to 1v-per-octave first?
Nice one Ben mate! Its a surprisingly deep box once the cv is added and now with a price reduction I think I'll look out for a 2nd! Great stuff, thanks for posting!
@@DivKid I like it! But the layout of this looks way more accessible and it comes at a lower price point. Would’ve been a gentler intro to synths... then again the building part might intimidate newbies too..
I'm not great at DIY and it's really simple. But for someone who hasn't done it it's rewarding enough to feel like you've made something yourself. Few screws is all it is really. This plus a Mother-32 would make for a nice 2 voice system. With the Mother-32 controlling the Werkstatt.
@divkidvideo any Idea why they changed the CV expander? It looks like Gate In got added and keyboard cv out was added, more useable options I'd guess, but just curious
the vocal tones thing is something Waveshaper (fuckin killer synthwave artist) tweeted about doing on the ARP 2600 and i never quite knew how it was done so I assumed it was something i would need to get a 2600 to do. Your explanation will allow me to replicate the effect on my Minibrute 2S
Looks like a simpler alternative to the Behringer Model D. Not sure if the lower price point is worth losing the oscillators/noise/extra envelope, but it’s a nice option to have.
@@DivKid yes, there is a very limited Drum part, and above all there is not all the CV Gate input for all ordered. but sound levels it looks like a lot, better quality for the Moog
Gate input rather than output (so sequence externally rather than gate out from onboard keyboard. CV expander now comes with the unit and it's around half the price it was. So near enough the same, they've just re-released. I think it's good it's available again.
@@DivKid Oh, gate input is huge. That was THE mod to make to the originals. Only one of mine has the true gate in. Well the price has actually been $199 here in the US for years, but adding the CV expander (normally $39, I think) and a gate in makes this new one a steal!
@knobs&strings & @effiksmusik ... well spotted, my cheeky little reveal :D ... definitely going to be better off for Patreon supporters regarding them.
@@DivKid Regarding the cv expander patch bay adapter, is there new or additional electrical buffering to make it safer to use with external gear, or was this already included or not needed in the first place?
Build/materials aside, this thing gets you the large majority of functionality in a mother-32 at like a third of the price. I can't say I love the mother's sequencer, and I don't see the point in racking a mother-32. If I didn't already have my mother I would definitely get this instead.
The PCB is ~6"x7.5". Inner clearance on 3u is 4 3/8ths in. If you're down to re-route surface mount, and mount it at an absurd 6" deep, you're a braver man than I. :) Edit: Could certainly set it up on LMNC's larger Kosmo format though.
@@DivKid lol sorry man it's just it was on every synthtuber review, I assume moog just sends tons of them for tubers to review 'cause they aren't that expensive
Hi David, no problem you can always ask questions about this stuff. Moog had a coordinated release and sent them out early to people to make videos. In my case I was paid to make the demo video. I'm all about deep diving, musical examples, technical examples and pushing synthesis with what features something offers. I don't do (or care to) review anything. If I can show all the raw sounds and features and share some music and patch tips then I'm happy. This was a much smaller release in terms of coordinated video drops than other recently releases. But any feedback is appreciated. Cheers!
Hi Curve Planner, so it does sound awesome or it doesn't? For clarity (if not clear) I was paid to make a demo video. I try to be really clear about that. I don't make reviews, but demos. Aiming to show raw sounds and features and then some ideas of how to use it. I'm open to the conversation and different perceptions of these things so feel free to go through it with me. No worries it not. I do think it's generally damaging to everyone to just throw the term shill around as if people are somehow trying to trick people. What makes you say shill in this instance?
DivKidVideo Actually, My comment came off wrong, my bad. I’ll own it. I’ll take your correction politely as done. It reads pretty trollish. I’m humbled. I like Moogs, love their sound, they kind of sell themselves that way. I would delete the comment but for your eloquent response, which I agree with should stay up. I used the term shill rather colloquially, it was not meant personally. You obviously put time in with it. So, I was wrong, you are right, my contrite apology offered. Honestly, I see these as a great entry level semi-mod or just a really portable back packer kit piece that can compete with that little Korg. Have a Great Day.
No worries, the intent of any comment is always hard via text online so I take things well (certainly happy with some criticism) I think. Good to discuss things though good or bad so thanks or getting back to me. This is definitely a really basic synth, I'm sure with the price drop really aimed at the lower end of the market but I do enjoy the tone. Have a great day too, cheers!
DivKidVideo Thanks for the response back, very tactful, indeed. I have a descent collection of synths dating from the early 80’s to current and I’m always looking for new gear that’s creatively inspiring, now I’m a new sub here.
ooh nice! So did you catch some of the analogue at the time or get into the new emerging digital gear in the 80s? Or was it a case of picking up those bits later on but they just originate from that period?
Important note: you don't actually need to cut the washer. That step has been removed from more recent assembly guides, it was erroneously left in from an earlier version of the werkstatt.
P pop pp
instablaster.
Wow! I am very impressed from the variety of sounds this Werkstatt-01-gem makes! Really cool.
Note to other builders: Correctly placing the CV expander pins into the header is the hardest part of this build. The pins are very long and delicate, and they have to completely seat deeply in the socket. All the builds have underestimated how easy they are to bend. I had no problems with my build, but this issue needs to be brought up.
Congrats. This was the best Werkstatt demo out out of the bunch released today. Really shows off a wide range of sounds that can be created on it. Lots of patch ideas and starting points.
Just assembled one of these last night while my wife hosted her online book club (crap, am I approaching middle age or something?). After the quick assembly process, I started jamming it through eurorack gear to see how it played. Buying a WERKSTATT-01 got me exactly what I was looking for: instant gratification. Fun! Lots of it. One last thing: bought mine from my local shop. Support your local shop!
There’s these amazing moments when designing beats, hooks, melodies etc. Where you go from working on the individual parts to the whole groove. Suddenly the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. It all locks together into a killer groove. You get a big smile and your head starts bobbing.
That last robot beat he assembled was just such a moment. Damn!
@07:00 … and there, that exact moment I literally stopped the video and ordered mine (so fast and convinced because they’re out of production….) Thanks for the best Werkstatt video 👍
Best demo imo of all the ones recently released. Mad props!
Got mine today, im so impressedfrom the sound, i love this thing!
This is an excellent and quite complete video about Werkstatt 01, thanks a lot, it helped me to realise its full potential!!
One of the most complete vids on Werkstatt I've seen. Will come back to this after picking mine up today.
I've seen a bunch of demo videos on the werkstatt-01, this is the best one.
Great video Ben. Without wishing to sound too gushing, your channel is one of the best for gear/module reviews.
I don't mind a gushy, usually me singing someone's praises as there's so many great people around. Thank you, really appreciate that. Always trying to go a bit further and deeper into things with synthesis ideas and musical applications.
This is sick little bit of kit. thanks for the in depth review. I might get one
The first synth I ever bought ... still love it
as always the best gear acquisition teaser on the internet , lovely video good job Ben
hahah LOL when you did the uhhhhhh
Are those all tall trimmers? Wondering about Thonk's toppers.
Thonk's Tall Trimmer Toppers is quite a nice bit of alliteration.
Not to be this guy, but my 4 semesters of high school German tell me this is pronounced "Virkstaat."
This has been my Ted talk.
Oh man the rolling bass patterns section is so fkn sick
At that price it really makes it a no brainer, great sound out of it and cracking patch examples as always!
I’ve got one ordered. Very excited to use alongside my Behringer Neutron. Happy patching ahead!
the neutron looks so cool but I feel I should get experience with wekstatt and basic sequencing before I'm ready for a neutron
@@matthewwilson3673 Just a word of advice. The Werkstatt's patch bay is so simple that you'll probably have it completely figured out in little time. That said , I recommend pairing it with the Crave if you feel like expanding. The patch bay is way less intimidating than many other synths, the Crave's circuitry is designed after that of the Mother32 so they sound great together. The problem with using just the Werkstatt is that there IS no sequencer. That's where the Crave comes in. The sequencer on that machine is not only simple, it's also very versatile and provides great control via CV and midi.
I'm tempted esp. by the CV EXPANDER , thanks for the video..
Great video, thanks for that!
I always wanted this as a 5th voice for the Elektron A4. I went for eurorack instead 😬
Love that clangorous robotic beat at 19:57!
The cheapest way to get that "Moog" sound just got cheaper. I got one a little over a year ago and did a few mods to it. Output volume knob, VCO on/off switch to use the filter with external audio, gate input (original expander didn't have gate input) and a pt2399 delay kit. Very dope lil synth.
Nah, the cheapest one is still Crave, Behringer's shameless clone
@@xani666 The Werkstatt is $50 cheaper than the Crave. No midi or sequencer, but still a great price for a real Moog filter and VCO that sounds great.
"Authentic" moog sound
@@coolo73 ... where ? every shop I've seen have it for ~$200
@@xani666 In all the major chains and online retailers in the US, a Crave is $250. The Werkstatt is $200 in the same stores. Just do a google search. I think Moog in general may be higher outside the US though.
Awesome presentation. Little package packing a huge punch. Sounds great .
🙂
I have one of the earlier models of the Werkstatt. It only has a Gate Out on the CV expander. Do you know where I can find resources to modify this?
Great demo. Miss that sound since I sold my mother 32. this would be a affordable way to get it back
The Behringer Crave is basically their version of a Mother 32 for around the same price as the Werkstatt with more functionality, if you miss the Mother 32. Aside from the design, the sound differences are minor. 👍🏾
@@Grinchy4376 true but I don’t want to support behringer copying the whole design of currently available synths from other companies
There is MIDI in this Moog? How i can hook it up with the external sequencer??
no MIDI it's analogue CV and gate. So you'd need to be able to out sequences with a CV and gate signal. There's a few small and simple devices for taking MIDI and converting to CV gate.
@@DivKid Thanks, what devices?
The CV OCD, Kenton make MIDI to CV boxes. If you search "MIDI to CV" or even USB MIDI to CV you'll find a range of devices to suit your set up.
@@DivKidWhat about Arturia Keystep? Can i hook it up to Keystep via CV and then from keystep via midi to Digitakt?
Yeah Keystep CV and gate out works into modular and semi modular gear.
Did anybody know if there is a suitable building/soldering instruction for the expander or will it be again sold separately ? I have the 2014 version without expander.
In case you still need it...
www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/WerkstattCVEB--moog-werkstatt-cv-expansion-board
Great deep dive!
great collection of pedals you have here to connect it to. is there a beginner friendly sequencer you recommend to go along with the werkstatt01?
Arturia Keystep 37 or a Korg SQ-1. I have used both. I think those are by far the best. And obviously the difference between the two is what exactly you want to do and if you want a key-bed.
I loved the review. I was hoping you would talk more about the cv expander, or is there really nothing more to say? Is this Werkstat-01 package a re-issue, or is this just considered a continuation of something that never really left production?
There are actually some small differences between this one and the Moogfest model. An obvious one being the tagline at the top of the front panel now just saying "analog synthesizer" without the reference to moogfest. But also the original didn't have a gate in on the patchbay. As for what there is to say about the cv expander: it mostly just gives you jack inputs and outputs for the same things the patchbay below does, so you can interface with other gear. But if there's something specific you would like to know about it, feel free to ask.
@@McMxxCiV Thank you very much for the reply, that covers what I was wondering quite nicely.
I just found out these were for sale at an attractive price near me...I may pick one up, since I don't actually have a Moog ladder filter in my inventory yet.
Thanks for the lesson in getting a kick drum outta this - sounds grand! That was one of the things I was hoping to use this for. Just bought one. Great demos! Did you have to calibrate it to 1v-per-octave first?
It is calibrated at the factory to 1 V/OCT, but there are instructions to do it yourself
@@thepostapocalyptictrio4762 thanks!
Nice one Ben mate! Its a surprisingly deep box once the cv is added and now with a price reduction I think I'll look out for a 2nd! Great stuff, thanks for posting!
I wish this came out earlier and I started with this instead of the Mother32!
is there something you don't like about the Mother-32?
@@DivKid I like it! But the layout of this looks way more accessible and it comes at a lower price point. Would’ve been a gentler intro to synths... then again the building part might intimidate newbies too..
I'm not great at DIY and it's really simple. But for someone who hasn't done it it's rewarding enough to feel like you've made something yourself. Few screws is all it is really.
This plus a Mother-32 would make for a nice 2 voice system. With the Mother-32 controlling the Werkstatt.
Noice, thanks for the video Ben!
Sounds huge! Gorgeous vid as ever Ben :)
@divkidvideo any Idea why they changed the CV expander? It looks like Gate In got added and keyboard cv out was added, more useable options I'd guess, but just curious
Very cool!
Great vid, I love the easter egg at 10:27
good spot
the vocal tones thing is something Waveshaper (fuckin killer synthwave artist) tweeted about doing on the ARP 2600 and i never quite knew how it was done so I assumed it was something i would need to get a 2600 to do. Your explanation will allow me to replicate the effect on my Minibrute 2S
you can definitely do it on a Minibrute 2s, I'll have a video of just that in the not too distant future.
@@DivKid ooooh
So how do I record stuf from this into an ableton track
I’ll be watching this one a few times. Is the old Werkstaat CV Expander Gate Out also Gate In?
Looks like a simpler alternative to the Behringer Model D. Not sure if the lower price point is worth losing the oscillators/noise/extra envelope, but it’s a nice option to have.
it's similar to the guts of a Mother-32.
Nice easter egg. Achievement unlocked? What do I win?
a better Monotribe?
I haven't had a Monotribe so can't directly compare. Monotribe has a sequencer and some basic drums too doesn't it?
@@DivKid
yes, there is a very limited Drum part, and above all there is not all the CV Gate input for all ordered. but sound levels it looks like a lot, better quality for the Moog
They said they wanted to play Tempo, but didn't understand what Stiflenaught was.
huh?
I’m confused, this has been out for years. I have two. What’s different?
Gate input rather than output (so sequence externally rather than gate out from onboard keyboard. CV expander now comes with the unit and it's around half the price it was. So near enough the same, they've just re-released. I think it's good it's available again.
@@DivKid Oh, gate input is huge. That was THE mod to make to the originals. Only one of mine has the true gate in. Well the price has actually been $199 here in the US for years, but adding the CV expander (normally $39, I think) and a gate in makes this new one a steal!
Yes I am looking to mod my OG Werkstatt. Where can I find someone to mod mine?
@@artmusicsport I wish I could help. One of mine could use the mod too. Might be someone on MuffWiggler that could assist.
@@jordanevo3 I found Mike Sisk. He posted a video making several modifications to the Werkstatt. I will reply again when I get it back!
Clangy noodle at the end was well noice 👾
I'd like to see this combined with the Korg nts-1
I have one and just ordered this guy. I'll let you know how it goes!
DivKid Blanks! 😻
Were do we get them?
@@effiksmusic Would love to know that too!
@@knobsstrings maybe they will be available for patreons?
@@effiksmusic Wouldn’t say no to that...
@knobs&strings & @effiksmusik ... well spotted, my cheeky little reveal :D ... definitely going to be better off for Patreon supporters regarding them.
6:30 if you dont know yet
Wait are you also node????????
Nice!
This should’ve been Werkstatt-02 or -1B
there's nothing much changed to be a v2 though
@@DivKid Regarding the cv expander patch bay adapter, is there new or additional electrical buffering to make it safer to use with external gear, or was this already included or not needed in the first place?
Should have made it eurorack!
Those Div Blanks though!!
Build/materials aside, this thing gets you the large majority of functionality in a mother-32 at like a third of the price.
I can't say I love the mother's sequencer, and I don't see the point in racking a mother-32. If I didn't already have my mother I would definitely get this instead.
So... a sheet of aluminum, a CNC machine, a few wires and a soldering iron turns this baby into the Eurorack module that Moog refuses to do for us...
You can rack a mother-32, and it's basically the same thing
@@TheSplines I have done just that, with an 0-Coast in a single case :)
The PCB is ~6"x7.5". Inner clearance on 3u is 4 3/8ths in. If you're down to re-route surface mount, and mount it at an absurd 6" deep, you're a braver man than I. :)
Edit: Could certainly set it up on LMNC's larger Kosmo format though.
oh great. Stranger Things played again. :)
NB: the "s" in the German word "Werkstatt" is spoken like the "sh" in "sheep" due to fucked up gramatical reasons. So think "Werkshtatt"
wow!! this is going to make so much other stuff obselete.
Ben, please contact me.
it should be called Moog Clichestatt
What's the cliche?
@@DivKid lol sorry man it's just it was on every synthtuber review, I assume moog just sends tons of them for tubers to review 'cause they aren't that expensive
Hi David, no problem you can always ask questions about this stuff.
Moog had a coordinated release and sent them out early to people to make videos. In my case I was paid to make the demo video. I'm all about deep diving, musical examples, technical examples and pushing synthesis with what features something offers. I don't do (or care to) review anything. If I can show all the raw sounds and features and share some music and patch tips then I'm happy.
This was a much smaller release in terms of coordinated video drops than other recently releases. But any feedback is appreciated.
Cheers!
@@DivKid Thank you for taking your time to explain
no problem, always best to open and clear about these things.
This thing sounds awesome!
Until you realize it does nothing special unless you shill it.
Hi Curve Planner, so it does sound awesome or it doesn't?
For clarity (if not clear) I was paid to make a demo video. I try to be really clear about that. I don't make reviews, but demos. Aiming to show raw sounds and features and then some ideas of how to use it.
I'm open to the conversation and different perceptions of these things so feel free to go through it with me. No worries it not.
I do think it's generally damaging to everyone to just throw the term shill around as if people are somehow trying to trick people. What makes you say shill in this instance?
DivKidVideo
Actually,
My comment came off wrong, my bad. I’ll own it. I’ll take your correction politely as done.
It reads pretty trollish. I’m humbled.
I like Moogs, love their sound, they kind of sell themselves that way.
I would delete the comment but for your eloquent response, which I agree with should stay up.
I used the term shill rather colloquially, it was not meant personally. You obviously put time in with it.
So, I was wrong, you are right, my contrite apology offered.
Honestly, I see these as a great entry level semi-mod or just a really portable back packer kit piece that can compete with that little Korg.
Have a Great Day.
No worries, the intent of any comment is always hard via text online so I take things well (certainly happy with some criticism) I think. Good to discuss things though good or bad so thanks or getting back to me.
This is definitely a really basic synth, I'm sure with the price drop really aimed at the lower end of the market but I do enjoy the tone.
Have a great day too, cheers!
DivKidVideo
Thanks for the response back, very tactful, indeed. I have a descent collection of synths dating from the early 80’s to current and I’m always looking for new gear that’s creatively inspiring, now I’m a new sub here.
ooh nice! So did you catch some of the analogue at the time or get into the new emerging digital gear in the 80s? Or was it a case of picking up those bits later on but they just originate from that period?